Sales jobs are a funny thing. Some people love them, while some people would rather do just about anything else. Whatever your feelings, almost all companies need to hire individuals who are able to sell.

The truth is that if you have the talent, jobs in sales can be one of the most lucrative forms of employment. The downside, of course, is that many sales jobs pay on a commission basis, which means that if you lack the necessary skills, you'll find that sales employment doesn't pay enough.

If you want to get a job in sales:

1. Start early. Many of the best salesmen started out by selling lemonade as a child. A long history of experience in sales will help you to gain employment in sales.

2. Have a professional review your resume. Make sure that you include specifics such as how much you sold at a previous sales job.

3. Join a professional sales organization to network. When you network with others in the industry, you can learn about a sales management job opening or learn other techniques that can improve your sales career.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use a professional recruiter for sales employment

A sales recruiter helps you get your foot in the door of the best companies. They are a convenient way to find jobs. Once you sign up with their service, they will actively contact companies to find you a position that works for you.

I recommend: Qualifind can help you find the job that you are looking for. They specialize in jobs throughout the US and Mexico. You'll do well if you are bilingual. Abacus Employment also offers jobs throughout the US. They offer both entry level and sales management jobs.

Search the job boards for the best jobs in sales

When they want to improve their sales careers, many people look to the Internet to find their next job. Online job boards conveniently list positions in virtually every city, making it a convenient way to find a job.

I recommend: Look through the jobs posted at SalesJobs.com to see if anything is right for you. Alternatively, browse the positions at Sales Animals. They also offer a job alert system, which will send you an email when there is a position available that meets your criteria.

Create your own job in sales through direct sales or affiliate marketing

If you ever wanted to be your own boss, now is the time to start. Many companies are now offering a model that allows independent sales people to receive a commission for selling their products.

I recommend: Internet Based Moms lists several companies that offer direct sales products. Once you find a product that you like, it's easy to make sales. Site Build It! will help you learn about affiliate marketing step by step.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Try to attend a sales training seminar at least once a year. This will help you to improve your skills, which in turns helps to advance your sales career.